And All That Jazz

The 2016 GRandJazzFest is just a few months away! On Saturday, August 20 and Sunday, August 21, the fifth annual festival will be held at Rosa Parks Circle. Eleven acts are on tap for this free, weekend-long jazz event. The acclaimed Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra will kick off the festival, with Edye Evans Hyde performing the accompanying vocals.

Saturday night's main act is Cindy Bradley. This is the first time a woman will headline the popular festival! Bradley started playing piano when she was 6, and later took up the trumpet. She began performing professionally at age 12. After earning her undergraduate and master's degrees in jazz studies, she headed to New York City where she became immersed in its vibrant jazz scene. Bradley's trumpeting skills will have everyone on their feet and dancing.

Sunday night's headliner is Chris Standring, who brings his infectious melodies, rhythm and arrangement to the stage during a high-energy, contemporary jazz performance.

GRandJazzFest, presented by DTE Energy Foundation, has become one of the region's most important cultural and community events. Visit grandjazzfest.orgto learn more about this festival and to view its complete lineup.

Written by Lisa Stickler, staff writer for West Michigan Woman magazine.